In addition to the items in the box, you need a proper shielded cable to connect the printer to your computer. You may also need an interface board, which is necessary only for those computers that can’t use the Centronics® parallel interface. Your computer manual can tell you which cable you need and whether or not you require a special interface.

Selecting a Place for the Printer

The main consideration in selecting a good location for the printer is placing the printer close enough to your computer for the cable to reach. Also remember the following:

•Use a grounded outlet, and do not use an adapter plug.

•Avoid using electrical outlets that are controlled by wall switches. Accidentally turning off a switch can wipe out valuable information in your computer’s memory and disrupt printing.

•Avoid using an outlet on the same circuit breaker with any large electrical machines or appliances. These can cause disruptive power fluctuations.

•Keep your printer and computer away from base units for cordless telephones.

•Protect the printer from direct sunlight, excessive heat, moisture, and dust. Make sure that it is not close to a heater or other heat source.

If you are going to use the tractor unit and continuous-feed paper, clear enough space around the printer so that the paper has an unobstructed path into and out of the printer. There are three common methods of arranging a printer and continuous-feed paper:

•Using a printer stand with the paper stacked behind it. (Because of the cable, it is usually best for the paper that feeds into the printer to be stacked somewhat behind the printer instead of directly beneath it.)

•Putting the printer on a desk or table and stacking the paper behind the printer.

•Using a desk or table as a stand, with the printer near the back edge and the paper on the floor or on a shelf,

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Setting Up